Editorial: Good luck hunters, and keep it safe

November 15, 2013

We wish for area hunters a safe and productive deer season beginning today.

This year the start of firearms season coincides nicely with the weekend, and makes it easier for many visitors to the region to take time off and make an extended long weekend of it. Truth is, this weekend's experience should serve as a good example of what it would be like if Michigan ever were to change the start of deer season from its traditional Nov. 15 opener to instead, the closest weekend to the 15th each year, as has been discussed in the past.

Hunters in these parts are urged by the Department of Natural Resources to bring their deer by the nearest check-in station (locations available at the DNR website) for bovine TB monitoring. Samples will be taken from the deer to help DNR biologists assess the biological health of the herd and help them develop future population management strategies.

As always, safety should be the top priority of every hunter. See your target clearly - don't guess at shadows. Wear hunter orange. Handle your firearms properly and carefully. Don't hunt on private land without first obtaining permission from the landowner.

A major part of every deer season is the camp life and culture Up North. Part of that culture often involves alcohol, so as always remember to don't drink and drive if you happen to be camp visiting. If you're out, have a designated driver. Drink responsibly.

DNR reports indicate this could be a very productive year for hunters in the region. We would suggest hunters head to where the acorns are, and there you will find many deer this year as acorns have been plentiful.

Finally, as always, share your success with friends and Alpena News readers. Send us a photo of your deer, along with pertinent information. Better yet, bring it by the newspaper office for a photo.